Diana Geaboc Embracing the unexpected: Diana's story as Project Engineer
With her energy and charm, Diana Geaboc has quickly cemented herself as an emerging leader at PBPL. Her work as a Project Engineer is fast-paced, but Diana still makes a point to check in with her team and share a laugh. In our busy, ever-changing environment, this caring and down-to-earth nature is invaluable.
ADVENTURE JUST OVER THE HORIZON.
Diana’s role as Project Engineer at PBPL is incredibly varied. Some days, she might be problem-solving the construction of a new piece of maritime infrastructure. Others, she could be assisting investigations into the condition or capacity of the Port’s infrastructure following a major incident.
“When we were berthing the USS Ronald Reagan Navy aircraft carrier, there was an issue with one of the hydraulic pumps. It wasn’t major, but it meant I could see the ship up close. Another time, we had to figure out how to unload heavily damaged containers from the APL England. It had been caught in a storm off the coast - another strong gust of wind would have knocked everything over, so we had to act fast to evaluate the proposed unloading operation and capacity of the wharf deck.”
There’s no doubt that our team at PBPL manages unpredictable situations. I ask Diana what it’s like to work on high-stakes projects.
“To thrive at the Port, you need to love a challenge. I’ve been in situations where problems arise during late night construction, and as the project lead you have to make the call on how to proceed. But that’s the essence of engineering - we often have to think on our feet to figure out the best way forward.”
Diana tells us that another major drawcard for working at PBPL is the ability to taste almost every branch of engineering. She draws on different disciplines every day - from mechanical or structural, to geotechnical or marine engineering. This on-the-job learning has seen her come a long way in the past two years.FROM LEARNING TO LEADING
Diana was in her final year of study when she stumbled across the internship opportunity at PBPL. Diana mentioned the job to her mother, also an engineer, who spoke highly of her previous experience working on a project alongside the Port. With this review, Diana decided to give it a shot - and it paid off.
“I was hired as a full-time intern during my summer break in 2018. It gave me a chance to get that hands-on experience that I was missing in the classroom. I stayed on part-time during my last semester, and when I graduated in 2019, I was brought on as a Graduate Engineer.”
Diana shone in her role. And just shy of a year later, she was promoted to Project Engineer. It’s unusual for someone so young to be in her position. And as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, she reflects on how this has been received by others.
“It’s ridiculous, but as a young woman in this industry, it can be hard to get people to take me seriously. Sometimes I am the only female on site and a lot of people are surprised when they realise I’m actually managing the project. But I think people are starting to challenge their internal biases. They might be wrong in their initial assumptions, but they come around quickly... and soon accept that I am the one directing the work.”THE VIEW FROM UP HERE
While exciting projects are a big benefit, Diana is also excited about the ability to develop her career.
“PBPL invests in me. I’ve just finished the Engineers Australia Graduate Program, which has focused on my personal and professional development - particularly project management. It’s been a fantastic experience, and I’m already planning my next course to further my education.”
Diana’s message for other young professionals considering a career with PBPL is clear:
“The opportunities to grow your career at the Port are endless. Our team is really encouraging, whether it be supporting training or just letting you take a look at different projects and get a feel for different areas.”
And an added bonus?
“I spend a lot of time working on site - but even when I am behind the desk, I still have spectacular ocean views!”Are you ready to explore the best career you never imagined? Follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook to be the first to hear about new opportunities.
